Poultry farmers in Ghana are facing significant challenges that require urgent government intervention to revamp the sector.
Importation of poultry products in 2023 amounted to approximately GH¢868.8 million, which accounted for about 7.7% of total imports. This has made it difficult for farmers to remain sustainable amidst the increasing market demand, primarily due to the high cost of borrowing.
Kwame Anim Somuah, the President of the Greater Accra Poultry Farmers Association, emphasized the challenges faced by farmers who heavily rely on egg production to sustain their businesses.
He highlighted the financial difficulties that arise when farmers lose their birds and do not receive support from the government, especially in the face of high-interest rates on loans obtained from banks.
Despite these challenges, Isaac Awuzah, the Chief Executive Officer of GAPFA, emphasized the commitment of poultry farmers to boosting local production and reducing reliance on imports.
He mentioned that they have acquired a 15 metric ton per hour machine that is expected to significantly increase production and help meet the growing demand for poultry products in the country.
The poultry sector plays a crucial role in Ghana’s economy and food security, contributing about 16% of the total livestock production.
The industry achieved an annual production of over 128,000 metric tons of poultry meat and nearly 2.3 billion eggs. However, the national demand for poultry meat is about 400,000 metric tons, while local production is just about 57,871 metric tons.
